Parvimonas micra Flashcards
Why is Parvimonas micra unique?
It is largely uncharacterized despite its linkage to numerous infectious diseases
What is the habtitual preference of Parvimonas micra?
In the human body (about 37℃).
It can be found all around the body, but one place is most common
What is the preferred habitat of Parvimonas micra?
The oral cavity, especially in the subgingival dental plaque
What are the preferred environmental conditions of Parvimonas micra?
Parvimonas micra is a mesophile (Prefers 20-45℃) and typically lives in slightly acidic to neutral environments
What is an interesting adaptation that Parvimonas micra has developed?
Through using polymicrobial synergism to enhance its growth, Parvimonas micra can benefit from inflammation which makes it inflammophilic.
What are the structural, morphological, and cellular properties of Parvimonas micra?
- Coccus-shaped
- Cellular organism in domain Bacteria
- Anaerobic
- Gram-positive
- 0.3-0.7nm in size
- Lack of a flagellum and outer membrane
- Thick layer of peptidoglycan
What are the virulence factors of Parvimonas micra?
- Presence of capsids
- High protease activity
- Production of hydrogen sulfide from glutathione
- Liopteichoic acid
What is the host range and mode of transmission of Parvimonas micra?
Parvimonas micra has a narrow host trange (limited to humans) and an unknown mode of transmission, though it is suspected to orignate in the oral cavity.
A virulence factor of P. micra is the production of hydrogen sulfide
How potent is the hydrogen sulfide produced by Parvimonas micra?
It is highly toxic and can become highly potent depending on the concentration of it in the body
What are the effects of hydrogen sulfide?
- Rapid respiratory and central nervous system depression
- Skin and mucuous membrane irritation
- Inhibits cytochrome c oxidase, causing a lack of oxygen in the cells
- Increases inflammation
- Triggers T cell proliferation
Are infections by Parvimonas micra treatable?
Yes, typically through antibiotics such as penicillin
Are there vaccines available against Parvimonas micra?
There are currently no vaccines available for Parvimonas micra
Does Parvimonas micra have potential for use in biotechnology or for any other applications?
No research supports the use of Parvimonas micra in biotechnology as of right now
What is one aspect related to Parvimonas micra that is the subject or current research efforts (within the last 3 years)?
Parvimonas micra has shown a strong association to colorectal cancer (CRC) . A high abundance of Parvimonas micra is found in the feces of CRC patients, but the relation between the two is still being researched.
